Corporate gifting has undergone a significant transformation. No longer confined to promotional tokens, it has become an expression of a company’s principles, priorities, and responsibilities. The global corporate gifting market is projected to grow from $839.57 billion in 2024 to $919.94 billion in 2025, at a compound annual growth rate of 9.6%.
The Indian market is valued at ₹120 billion and is growing over 200% annually. As a result, gifting decisions are gaining greater strategic relevance. Notably, 80% of individuals now favour environmentally responsible gifts, highlighting a decisive shift in expectations.
Business gifting is no longer peripheral, it shapes brand reputation, stakeholder trust, and culture. Thoughtful, sustainable choices reflect a company’s intent and alignment with broader societal values.
Why sustainability cannot be overlooked
In India, 60% of consumers are willing to pay a premium for sustainably produced or environmentally friendly products. Almost half of consumers perceive climate change as a serious threat, motivating them to adjust their purchasing habits towards sustainable alternatives. Encouragingly, sustainable products are no longer considered niche, with 70% of consumers reporting access to such products within their budgets.
This shift in consumer behaviour is accompanied by an environmental imperative. The Indian corporate gifting industry is expected to contribute over 72 lakh tonnes of carbon emissions and 2.7 lakh tonnes of plastic waste by 2028 if conventional practices remain unchanged. Such figures highlight the urgent need to reconsider gifting practices, moving towards alternatives that mitigate environmental impact.
Many businesses in India have begun incorporating sustainability into their gifting strategies, offering products created from recycled materials. By embedding sustainability into gifting, brands are demonstrating environmental stewardship while enhancing their credibility among stakeholders.
Corporate responsibility and gifting
In India, companies meeting CSR criteria must allocate at least 2% of their average net profits to social responsibility initiatives. This presents a strategic opportunity to integrate sustainable gifting into CSR goals.
Today’s stakeholders – investors, customers, and partners; expect visible ESG action. Sustainable gifting offers a tangible way to demonstrate these commitments, turning intent into impact while building trust.
While upfront costs may appear higher, sustainable gifts often yield greater long-term value through durability, reduced waste, and stronger brand differentiation. They position businesses as responsible, future-focused, and aligned with evolving stakeholder expectations.
Key trends shaping the sustainable gifting industry
Several trends are reshaping corporate gifting towards sustainability. The use of eco-friendly materials; whether biodegradable, recycled, or reusable is becoming standard practice.
Packaging practices are also being reimagined. Many brands have adopted sustainable measures by using hay-based packaging and minimizing adhesive materials. This shift has contributed to a 60% increase in revenue and sales in their gifting segment, with dry fruits emerging as a preferred choice for their health benefits and extended shelf life.
Personalization continues to gain prominence, as gifts tailored to recipient preferences enhance engagement and relevance. In parallel, experience-based gifting is being embraced as an alternative to physical goods, reducing material consumption while delivering meaningful interactions.
The way forward
The growing alignment between corporate values and gifting practices places responsibility in the hands of business leaders. By embedding sustainability into gifting strategies, companies are signaling accountability, authenticity, and alignment with stakeholder expectations.
Leaders who adopt sustainable gifting are laying the groundwork for practices that extend beyond transactions, contributing to a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and ethical engagement.
As the corporate gifting landscape evolves, sustainability must move from being an option to becoming the default. Leaders who embed purpose into these everyday decisions will not only enhance brand equity but also drive a wider cultural shift towards conscious business. In the end, it’s not just about what we give – it’s about what we stand for.
Views of the author are personal and do not necessarily represent the website’s views.
The article has been written by Abhishek Kurdukar, Sales Director, Pluxee India. Abhishek Kurdukar brings over 20 years of corporate experience, having led high-performance teams at Mastercard, Thomas Cook, SBI Card, and now Pluxee India. A seasoned sales leader and employee experience champion, he combines deep expertise in Payments and FinTech with a passion for technology and strategic partnerships. Outside of work, Abhishek is an avid reader and a dedicated sports enthusiast, committed to a balanced lifestyle.